Bridge Kids Update
In response to feedback from the community, our after school program continues to provide an important service to elementary students in South Arlington. The kids are learning English in a creative and social context, and connecting to adults who want to invest in them and their families. Thanks to your support and prayers, much has happened since we launched the program last fall:
1) Spring session going well - The same kids who participated in the Fall class registered for the Spring session. Given that we only recently started Bridge Kids, the continued participation of kids and their families was an encouraging affirmation the program was meeting a need and kids looked forward to participating. We are especially grateful for ESL teacher Amy Graham for the energy, creativity and love for the kids she brings every day, in leading and expanding the program.
2) Strong partnership commitments - As part of our overall mission, Arlington Bridge Builders is committed to serving with other nonprofits for the flourishing of Arlington. We are so grateful for our partnerships with Beauty for Ashes for providing an art program and Flag Star Football for providing fun and energetic outdoor activities for Bridge Kids. A big thanks also to our Enrichment Coordinator Sammy Zabellas for organizing these and other activities that the kids love.
3) Planning a short summer program — So that we deepen our relationships with the kids and their families and build on this early momentum, we are planning a shorter Bridge Kids “day camp” during the summer. We hope the summer program will provide a boost to the fall program, where we are . . . (read on!).
4) Preparing to expand to 5 days a week - In order for the kids to truly make progress in their English fluency, we need to grow the program from two to five days per week. We are also preparing to expand the number of students from 20 to 30 kids, along with a fuller set of reading material. Our relationship with the local elementary school will continue to deepen, as we work closely with teachers and administrators in finalizing our math, English and reading curriculum.
5) Seeking part-time After School Director (paid) - To provide quality services in an expanded program, we are planning to hire a part-time Director of the Bridge Kids program. If interested—or if you know of a strong candidate—please send an email to contactarlingtonbridge@gmail.com. We are thrilled to be able to pursue this role, made possible by . . . (read on!)
6) Provision of funding - We recently received news of a very generous grant award from the Arlington Foundation for Families and Youth that will make it possible to hire a part-time director! Through the kindness of our community, God is providing for our vulnerable neighbors! Though another grant application did not materialize, we are seeking more funding to continue and expand this truly fruitful program.
6) Praising God for volunteers - With very little promotion, several people have come forward to volunteer their time and energy for our Bridge Kids kids! If you’re interested in helping teach English to kids or helping lead an enrichment activity, let us know at contactarlingtonbridge@gmail.com.